European Ferret

Scientific Name:Mustela putoriusClass:MammaliaOrder:CarnivoraFamily:MustelidaeFeeding Type:CarnivorousRange:Western and Central EuropeHabitat:Forest, meadows, parks, willages, farms and barnsDiet in the Wild:Mice, rats, small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibiansDiet at the Zoo:Meat mixture, Ferret ChowLongevity:Approximatley five years, longer in captivityDescription:Ferrets measure from 14 to 18 inches and weigh between 2 and 4 pounds. They have lithe, flexible bodies, and their fur grows vertically from its body. They have a long tail and because they are a mustelid and are related to the skunk and badger, they have musk glands that produce very strong scents.Adaptation/Behavior:Ferrets have a keen sense of smell and hearing. Their lithe, flexible and slender bodies allow them to chase mice and rats in burrows. They also make shrill screams when fighting. They are curious and playful.Courtship/BreedingBreeding season is from March to June. The male follows the femaile and they call back and forth. Prior to mating, the male grabs the female by the fur on the nape of her neck. Gestation is about 6 weeks and 2 to 10 kits are born in a nest of hay or moss.Conservation:The number of European Ferrets is dwindling. This is due to habitat loss and increase in human activities. They are mostly domesticated. The Black-footed Ferrets were once thought to be extinct in the wild, but they are making a slow comback in Wyoming.Interesting Facts:Useful in controlling mice and rats on farmsVision is secondary to smell and hearingDomesticated from the Wild European PolecatMale ferrets are called hobs